Ukraine is the largest country in Eastern Europe, located in Central Europe, with an area of 603,700 square kilometers. It borders several European Union countries: Hungary, Poland, Slovakia, Romania, as well as countries from the former CIS: Russia, Moldova, and Belarus. Ukraine’s southern region serves as important maritime gateways, providing access to the Black Sea. Most of the country is flat, but in the west, the Carpathian Mountains rise, home to the highest peak in the country, Mount Hoverla (2061 m).

Ukraine has a population of approximately 46.6 million people, 78% of whom are Ukrainians. Other nationalities in Ukraine include Belarusians, Crimean Tatars, Jews, Moldovans, Poles, Hungarians, and others.

The national currency of Ukraine is the hryvnia (UAH), and 1 hryvnia is equal to 100 kopecks. Banknotes in circulation are in denominations of 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2, and 1 hryvnia, with coins in denominations of 1 hryvnia, 50, 25, 10, 5, 2, and 1 kopeck. Currency exchange can be freely conducted at airports, train stations, banks, and exchange offices. Rubles, US dollars, and euros are often accepted in markets, private stores, and restaurants. However, it should be noted that the hryvnia is a partially convertible currency, and there may be difficulties exchanging it outside of Ukraine. Credit cards (American Express, MasterCard, Visa, and Maestro) are widely accepted, including at hotels, shops, and restaurants. However, traveler’s checks are only accepted in large banks.

Ukraine is 2 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time. Both daylight saving time (from March to October) and standard time are used in Ukraine. Grocery stores and pharmacies are open from 8:00 AM to 7:00-8:00 PM. In major cities and resort areas, there are 24-hour supermarkets. Banks operate from 9:00 AM to 4:00-5:00 PM, and exchange offices are open from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Citizens of several countries can enter Ukraine without a visa for up to 90 days. Among these are citizens of the USA, European Union countries, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Japan, and Canada. Citizens of other CIS countries can also enter Ukraine without a visa if they have a valid passport. There are restrictions on the value and quantity of goods brought into the country. For example, goods worth up to 200 euros are exempt from taxation. Exporting cultural and historical values requires permission from the Ministry of Culture of Ukraine.

Ukraine’s country code: +380.

Fire services: 101

Police: 102

Emergency medical services: 103

Gas emergency service: 104

Information services: 109

Ukraine is located at an important transport crossroads that connects Southeastern and Northwestern Europe. Key international transport corridors pass through Ukraine. However, many roads do not meet European standards. Ukraine has a well-developed railway system connecting all major cities. The largest railway stations are in Kyiv, Kharkiv, Lviv, and other large cities. International airports are located in Kyiv (Boryspil and Zhulyany), Odesa, Lviv, Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia, and other cities. Odessa and Kherson are also important ports.

Ukraine attracts tourists not only with its history and culture but also with opportunities for active recreation. The Carpathian ski resorts are a popular destination for winter tourism. Resorts such as Bukovel, Slavske, Dragobrat, and Yasinya offer excellent conditions for skiing and snowboarding. These places are famous not only for their quality slopes but also for their picturesque mountain landscapes. Moreover, the Carpathians are known for their developed infrastructure, including hotels, restaurants, and spas.

For those who prefer summer vacation, Ukraine offers a variety of resorts along the Black Sea coast. In Odesa region, resorts are popular both in Odesa itself and in its suburbs, such as Zatoka and Kyrylivka.

In Mykolaiv and Kherson regions, there are also beaches and resorts such as Kobleve. These resorts attract tourists with their mild climate, wide beaches, and opportunities for water sports.

Ukrainian cuisine is known for its diversity and rich flavors. One of the most famous dishes is borscht – a soup made from beets, cabbage, carrots, and other vegetables, served with pampushky (small garlic buns). Other popular dishes include varenyky (dumplings with various fillings), kulish (a type of porridge), halushky (dumplings), and homemade sausages. High-quality wines are produced in the wine-growing regions of Ukraine, such as the Odesa region. The national strong drink of Ukraine is horilka (vodka).

Ukraine is rich in historical and natural landmarks. Among the religious shrines are the St. Sophia Cathedral and the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra in Kyiv, the Pochaiv Lavra in Ternopil region, and numerous other monasteries and churches. Natural landmarks include the Marble Cave in the Carpathians, Lake Svityaz in Volyn region, and the Askania-Nova biosphere reserve in Kherson region.